This entire mantel clock is covered in intricate Viennese enamel

Key Features

The entire exterior is covered in enamelwork synonymous with the skilled artisans of Austria

Such quality works of Viennese enamel are in great demand today

Circa 1870

4 3/4 wide x 4 3/4 deep x 9 1/4 high

Item Details

Width:
4 3/4 Inches

Height:
9 1/4 Inches

Depth:
4 3/4 Inches

Period:
19th Century

Origin:
Other

A small yet enormously captivating mantel clock decorated with the finest Viennese enamelwork to come out of the 19th century. A fantastic testament to the skilled artisans of Austria, this clock is decorated in the extremely labor intensive process of painted enamel. Whimsical scenes of voluptuous women draped in diaphanous robes and floating "putti," the cherub symbol of earthly love, are mounted on the four silver gilt sides of the case and the dome top. Delicate females, mythological characters and arabesque gilt work adorn the edges. The Roman numeral dial includes a winding apparatus and the key is attached ready to wind and set this darling clock in motion.

Circa 1870

Small ornamental clocks such as this one were highly desirable during the 19th century. The enameled decoration gave added value and individuality, considering no two pieces were exactly alike. The forte of the Viennese enamelers was their success in following the trend set by the interior decorators of mansions and great public buildings with regard to color schemes and pictorial themes from classical mythology. Considering the highly skilled craftsmanship of the Viennese artisans, this ornamental work often surpassed the original Renaissance and rococo designs it emulated, making Vienna one of the most important European centers for decorative arts.